The legal counsel to Tracy Nither Ohiri, Marshall Abubakar, has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations of misconduct, insisting his client admitted she had no evidence to support her claims against the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
In a detailed statement released, Abubakar dismissed Ohiri’s accusations as “falsehoods,” using a striking metaphor to describe his experience: “Indeed, the fact that you helped a viper out of a ditch doesn’t stop the snake from biting you.”
The lawyer stated that he was instrumental in mobilising public support for Ohiri, working with individuals such as Ireti Kingibe, Omoyele Sowore, and social commentator Verydarkblackman to ensure she was not silenced.
According to him, the intervention helped prevent what he described as attempts to use “state apparatus” to suppress her and possibly secure her imprisonment during a prolonged standoff.
However, Abubakar claimed that upon reviewing the case, he discovered there was no legal basis for Ohiri’s allegations.
“I discovered that there was no single real evidence of any contractual agreement between her and the Minister,” he said, adding that there was no proof of contract engagement, threats, or delivery of goods as previously claimed.
He also recounted a failed mediation meeting involving Ohiri, her husband, Senator Kingibe, and the Minister’s legal team, including Mr. Abdul, SAN, which he said ended without resolution due to her conduct.
Abubakar further alleged that Ohiri later “pleaded and pleaded” with him not to withdraw from the case, expressing concern about multiple legal actions filed against her in Ebonyi State. He noted that he advised her on the legal implications of defamation under Nigerian law.
Addressing the financial aspect of the controversy, the lawyer clarified that a $70,000 payment made to Ohiri came from Joseph Ekumankama, a former minister and associate of Umahi.
“It was Barrister Joseph that gave me a total sum of $70,000 to give to her,” Abubakar stated. “He informed me that it’s not compensation for any contract neither was it admission that they were owing her but just for the sake of peace and my mediating approach to the issue.”
He concluded by asserting that Ohiri admitted to having no evidence and agreed to withdraw her claims in order to halt legal proceedings against her. He also challenged critics to verify his account with Ekumankama, whom he described as a key witness.
What you should know
This latest development deepens the controversy, shifting focus from the original allegations against the Minister of Works to conflicting claims between Ohiri and her lawyer.
If Abubakar’s assertions are accurate, the case may lack legal merit, raising serious questions about credibility and possible defamation. The mention of mediation payments and third-party involvement also adds complexity.
With both parties presenting opposing narratives and no independent confirmation yet, the situation remains unresolved and could potentially escalate into further legal battles.
